Classic Homemade Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Soft, fluffy, and swirled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar filling, these classic homemade cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort treat. Baked to perfection and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, they offer the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a weekend indulgence, this recipe guarantees melt-in-your-mouth rolls that taste better than store-bought versions.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth)

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until slightly foamy.
2. Stir in sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until soft and elastic.
5. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

1. In a bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.

Step 3: Roll and Assemble

1. Roll the dough into a 15×12-inch rectangle.
2. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface.
3. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal rolls.
4. Arrange them in a greased baking pan, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Drizzle over warm rolls.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls:

• Use warm milk (not hot) to properly activate the yeast.
• Roll the dough evenly for consistent layers.
• Try cream cheese frosting for a richer topping.
• Store leftovers properly and reheat for maximum freshness.

Want a variation with caramel or nuts? Let’s explore more ways to make these cinnamon rolls even better!